Hey friends,

This week, I had the opportunity to interview someone at the very beginning of their career—young, ambitious, and eager to make their mark. The conversation brought back memories of my own early days and made me reflect on the skills I wish I had focused on more when I was starting out.

Looking back, there are lessons I’ve learned through experience that could have made those first years smoother and more impactful. If I could sit down with my younger self, here’s the advice I’d share about the skills that truly make a difference:

In the corporate world, communication isn’t just about expressing ideas—it’s a vital tool for solving problems. Identifying issues is only half the battle; the real challenge lies in articulating them clearly, rallying the right people, and proposing actionable solutions.

Early in my career, I often assumed that spotting inefficiencies or having good ideas was enough. It wasn’t. I quickly learned that the way you communicate determines whether people trust you, buy into your vision, and take action. Tailoring your message to your audience and presenting solutions with clarity and confidence will set you apart.

Here’s the key: don’t just focus on being heard—focus on being understood. This skill becomes even more valuable when paired with a proactive, problem-solving mindset. Together, they make you indispensable.

When you’re new, it’s tempting to stick to your immediate tasks and avoid stepping out of your comfort zone. But curiosity is what accelerates growth. Ask questions, seek to understand the bigger picture, and look for ways to contribute beyond your current role.

In my early days, I often stayed within the boundaries of my responsibilities. Once I started asking how and why things worked—beyond just completing tasks—I discovered opportunities to improve processes and gained valuable insights that set me apart.

Your network is one of your greatest assets, and the earlier you start building it, the better. Networking isn’t about collecting contacts; it’s about building genuine relationships.

Take the time to connect with your peers, colleagues, and mentors. Be curious about their experiences and look for ways to support them. Even small, consistent efforts—like offering help or following up after meetings—can lead to strong professional connections that will be invaluable throughout your career.

The corporate world is demanding, and juggling multiple priorities will quickly become your norm. Early in my career, I struggled to balance tasks and deadlines, often feeling overwhelmed. Learning to prioritize, set boundaries, and master time management tools was a game-changer.

The earlier you develop these habits, the more in control you’ll feel—and the more space you’ll have for creative and strategic thinking, which can make all the difference in your growth.

One thing I’ve always prioritized is asking for feedback. Whether it’s after a project, a negotiation, or even a meeting, I actively seek out perspectives on what I could improve and what I did well. But what truly matters is how you act on that feedback.

In those early years, I learned to view feedback as an opportunity for growth, not criticism. It helped me uncover blind spots and recognize strengths I wasn’t fully using. By being open to feedback—and applying it—you can accelerate your development and build trust with those around you.

Reflecting on these lessons, I can confidently say they’ve shaped my career in ways I couldn’t have predicted. If you’re just starting out—or even if you’re well into your journey—take a moment to think about which of these skills you might be overlooking.

Success isn’t about mastering everything overnight; it’s about committing to continuous improvement. If you focus on curiosity, communication, and self-awareness, you’ll build a foundation that supports growth no matter where your career takes you.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give your younger self? I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Cheers,

Fernando

Bunkering

This week, we’re diving into another fundamental aspect of maritime operations: Bunkering.

Bunkering refers to the process of supplying fuel to ships. This essential operation ensures that vessels have the necessary energy to power their engines and complete their journeys. While it may sound straightforward, bunkering involves a series of complex procedures that require careful planning and execution to ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance with environmental regulations.

The term "bunkering" has its roots in the word "bunker," which originally referred to a storage compartment on a ship for coal or fuel. As maritime technology evolved and ships transitioned from coal to oil, the term adapted to encompass the refueling process itself. Today, bunkering can involve various types of fuel, including heavy fuel oil, marine diesel oil, and even alternative fuels like LNG (liquefied natural gas).

Understanding bunkering is crucial for several reasons:

In summary, bunkering is a vital operation in the maritime industry that ensures vessels are fueled and ready for their journeys. It encompasses not just the act of refueling but also a commitment to safety, efficiency, and environmental stewardship. So next time you spot a ship taking on fuel at port, remember the intricate processes behind this essential maritime activity!Until next week, may your sails be full and your horizons bright!

Thank you for joining us on this voyage through the world of maritime terminology. Stay tuned for more insights next week, and as always, feel free to suggest topics or ask questions by replying to this email or sending me a DM!

📚 Book: Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of NIKE

This week let’s lace up our sneakers and take a stroll through Phil Knight's captivating memoir, “Shoe Dog.” If you’ve ever wondered how a simple idea transformed into one of the most iconic brands in the world, this book is your backstage pass to the wild ride that is Nike’s origin story.

From Humble Beginnings
Phil Knight, fresh out of business school in 1962, had a dream: to import high-quality, low-cost athletic shoes from Japan. With just $50 borrowed from his dad and a trunk full of shoes in his lime green Plymouth Valiant, he embarked on a journey that would eventually lead to Nike’s staggering $30 billion annual sales. The book chronicles his evolution from a young entrepreneur with a crazy idea to the co-founder of a global powerhouse.

A Rollercoaster of Challenges
What makes “Shoe Dog” truly compelling is Knight's candid storytelling. He doesn’t sugarcoat the struggles—think sleepless nights, financial uncertainty, and the constant pressure to innovate. Knight shares how he navigated these challenges with grit and determination, often relying on intuition rather than a clear roadmap. This raw honesty is refreshing; it reminds us that the path to success is rarely a straight line.

1. The Name Game
One of the most fascinating anecdotes involves the naming of Nike itself. Initially known as Blue Ribbon Sports, the company underwent a rebranding process that culminated in a last-minute decision to adopt the name “Nike.” Knight reveals how this pivotal moment was driven by instinct rather than extensive market research—a testament to the power of trusting your gut.

2. Hiring for Potential
Knight’s approach to building his team is another standout theme. He emphasizes hiring talented individuals even when there’s no clear role for them yet. This philosophy not only fostered a culture of creativity but also attracted passionate people who would go on to shape Nike’s future. It’s a powerful reminder that sometimes, potential matters more than position.

3. Embracing Failure
Throughout the memoir, Knight illustrates that failure is not just an obstacle but an essential part of growth. He recounts moments where setbacks felt insurmountable but ultimately led to invaluable lessons and innovations. This perspective encourages readers to embrace their own failures as stepping stones toward success.

“Shoe Dog” isn’t just a memoir; it’s an inspiring narrative about resilience, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of dreams. Phil Knight’s journey from selling shoes out of his car to creating a cultural phenomenon serves as both an educational guide and an uplifting story for entrepreneurs and dreamers alike. So whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or simply someone who enjoys a good story about overcoming odds, grab this book—it’s sure to motivate you to lace up and chase your own dreams!